Your rights
Information about your rights and what to do if you’ve been treated unfairly because of your disability.
There are several laws in New Zealand that uphold the rights of our disabled community.
In the workplace, every employee is guaranteed basic legal protections like safety at work, fair treatment, and good-faith dealing. Under the Human Rights Act 1993, employers must make reasonable adjustments for disabled staff (such as modifying physical access or changing work tasks).
The Human Rights Act 1993 also guarantees that public transport must be accessible for disabled people. This includes wheelchair access, space for service animals, and dedicated areas for those with sensory or physical needs.
Under the Residential Tenancies Act 1986, both landlords and tenants must meet responsibilities. Disabled tenants have the right to request minor modifications (e.g. grab rails, visual fire alarms) and landlords generally shouldn’t refuse.
You have right to receive government information in formats you can understand. The Official Information Act and Plain Language Act ensure agencies use clear language. A variety of accessible formats—such as NZ Sign Language, large print, Braille, audio, and Easy Read must be offered upon request.
In this section
-
Your rights as a tenant
All landlords and tenants have responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies Act 1986. It’s important that disabled people have a safe and accessible place to live.
-
Your rights to transport
You should be able to get from A to B when you need to.
-
Your rights in the work place
All employees have rights in New Zealand law that can’t be taken away.
-
Your right to accessible information
Every Kiwi has the right to access their information in a way that can be understood.
-
Your right to make your own decisions
What is supported decision-making and how can I apply it?